Most of us use social media to a greater or lesser extent to promote our work and we all know that some posts work better than others. Let me offer a few tips as to what may be effective.
Make sure you begin with a smart comment. Your first line is everything because so many people stop reading posts after 2 seconds as they surf the internet. Make your initial comment count. Your first line should make your audience take time to read the second and so on.
When you write a post, write for one person. The person you think of as your target market. Don't write for a wide audience. Make the post feel personal.
Cut the professional mumbo jumbo. Nobody reading your posts wants to be made to feel stupid or as if you are speaking down to them. Remember whoever your audience is they, and you are human. To connect on social media both the poster and the reader must feel that connection.
When you are drafting a post, try to use stories or examples rather than facts and figures. While information may be of interest to you, the stories and examples will make your post more memorable to your reader. To that end, make sure you use short sentences and make your points clearly. As with your writing, be ruthless while editing your posts. Every word should earn its place.
Put your personality into your posts. Social media is varied now. It showcases your digital identity. Make sure to sure simple words and concise language to make your points. If an eight year old couldn't understand it, rewrite it. Don't put your readers off with big words or complex sentences. Social media should be kept light and engaging.
Most importantly, post regularly to keep your readers engaged. There are so many strands of social media now, choose those that best reflect your personality and that your target readers are most likely to find interesting.
Hopefully these tips will allow you to enjoy your time on social media. It is a lovely way to connect with those with similar interests, friends and readers and writers who enjoy your work.
Val Penny
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